======Second Class Levers======


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**Alternative titles:** Wheelbarrow Lever Demonstration
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  - Stack several books vertically to create a support base.  
  - Place one end of a ruler on top of the books to act as the fulcrum.  
  - Use your pointer finger to lift the other end of the ruler, providing the effort.  
  - Place a weight at the point on the ruler closest to your finger (the effort) and try lifting. Note how heavy it feels.  
  - Move the weight to the middle of the ruler between the fulcrum and the effort. Lift again and observe.  
  - Place the weight closest to the fulcrum and lift once more. Compare how heavy it feels compared to the other positions.



====Links==== 
📄 The Lever Experiment - eSchoolToday: [[https://eschooltoday.com/learn/class-two-lever-experiment/]]\\

📄 Lifting with a Lever - Science Buddies: [[https://www.sciencebuddies.org/Files/789/4/Classroom_Activity_Teacher_Levers.pdf]]\\


====Variations====
  * Try using different weights to see if the effect is more noticeable.  
  * Swap the ruler for a longer or shorter lever and compare results.  
  * Replace the pile of books with a block, cup, or small box as the fulcrum.



====Safety Precautions====
  * Ensure the pile of books is stable to prevent the ruler from slipping.  
  * Use a weight that is not too heavy to avoid dropping it on fingers or toes.  
  * Supervise younger children to prevent pinched fingers under the ruler.




====Questions to Consider====
  * Which load position required the least effort to lift? (Closest to the fulcrum.)  
  * Which load position required the most effort to lift? (Closest to the effort.)  
  * Why does placing the load near the fulcrum make it easier to lift? (Because it reduces the turning effect, giving the lever a greater mechanical advantage.)  
  * How does this experiment relate to real tools like a wheelbarrow? (The closer the load is to the wheel/fulcrum, the easier it is to lift and move.)